Odisha Revenue Department to Undergo Comprehensive Reforms: Minister Suresh Pujari

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Sambalpur: In preparation for the introduction of a new revenue legislation that would modernise procedures and do away with antiquated methods, the state's revenue department is preparing for a radical makeover. At a high-level meeting in Sambalpur on Sunday, Suresh Pujari, the minister of revenue and disaster management for Odisha, made this declaration. With a major focus on fair land allocation, improved farmer support, and the elimination of corruption within the agency, the new law promises considerable structural reforms. 

Important Aspects of the Next Reforms 

1. Using "Disaster Rights" in place of "Relief"

According to Minister Pujari, the word "relief" will no longer be used in the new law since it suggests sympathy rather than empowerment. 

2. Land Settlement Act Amendments

Important changes will be made to the Odisha Land Settlement Act, especially to Section 3. Within 30 days after the official announcement, the public will have the opportunity to object to the revisions. 

3. A More Comprehensive Definition of Landless Recipients 

People who own less than four decimals of land will be considered landless under the new framework. In order to provide a minimum of four decimals for dwelling, such persons will be qualified for extra land grants. Compared to the previous approach, which only catered to people without land holdings, this is an improvement. 

4. Increased Adoption of Technology 

Revenue inspectors and amin (surveyors) will get computers as part of the modernisation effort to increase operational efficiency and transparency. This is aimed at creating a corruption-free and digitally empowered revenue department. 
The goal is to establish a revenue agency that is free from corruption and empowered by technology. 

Pay Attention to Farmer Welfare 

The minister placed a strong emphasis on expediting the paddy and other agricultural commodity purchase procedures. Among the important measures mentioned were: 

• Ensuring that farmers receive their Minimum Support Price (MSP) on schedule. 

• Establishing modernised procurement centers with facilities such as waiting rooms, drinking water, and sanitation. 
• Constructing permanent storage warehouses to address post-harvest challenges. 

To support marginalised farmers, the government also plans to provide land pattas (ownership rights) for tribal families and educational institutions. In accordance with their traditional usage rights, efforts are also being made to guarantee that tribal communities have access to forest lands. 

Revenue Services Transparency 

Minister Pujari declared that the revenue department will put in place mechanisms to guarantee complete transparency, highlighting the government's commitment to reform. This entails eliminating middlemen, encouraging accountability, and digitising processes to streamline operations. 

Extensive Conversations Were Held 

Senior administrative officials, including District Collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar, as well as other district collectors, sub-collectors, and tehsildars, attended the review meeting. The following topics were discussed: 

• Implementation of welfare programs, such as the Vasundhara Scheme, which provides land for homesteads. 
• Infrastructure improvements in procurement centers, including farmer-friendly amenities. 
• Tribal rights to forest lands and educational land allocation processes. 
• The minister assured attendees that the new initiatives would pave the way for a fair and efficient revenue administration system, meeting the needs of Odisha's citizens. 

An Advancement in Modernisation 

Steps to implement cutting-edge measures to enhance service delivery were also discussed at the Sambalpur meeting. In order to establish Odisha's revenue services as a model of excellence, Minister Pujari emphasised the necessity of utilising technology and implementing best practices from other states. 
The changes demonstrate the Odisha government's initiative in resolving long-standing inefficiencies and guaranteeing a revenue structure that is focused on the needs of its citizens. Odisha is poised to take the lead in inclusive and modern governance with the implementation of these reforms. 

About the Author

Rabindra Kumar Pradhan is an expert in news content writer, with years of experience in promoting all types of categories. He is also the publisher and editor of NKNEWS ODISHA.